Feeding Our Community: The Power of Local Farms

When Jewel moved to Eugene 30 years ago, a friend suggested she check out the Food for Lane County Youth Farm. “I visited the farm stand at the Youth Farm, and I was absolutely stunned by the quality of the produce,” she recalled. She soon became a member of the farm’s Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) program.

Now 80, Jewel is still an enthusiastic ambassador. Mobility issues make it difficult for her to get to the farm, so she is especially grateful for her weekly CSA box. The farm’s Double Up Food Bucks program reduces the cost of her membership by half, making fresh, local produce affordable on her limited income.

For Jewel, the Youth Farm represents more than just fresh food. “It’s a source of connection, kindness and community,” she said. “I’ll continue to support it in any way I can because I believe in this place.”

Investing in Farms to Provide Food for All
In 2024, Food for Lane County embarked on a new five-year project to increase food security while investing in small, local farms.

The Farm to Food Assistance program, funded by the Lane Community Health Council, ensures that the same fresh, nutritious foods available at farmers’ markets are also available at food pantries.

Grant funds allow us to pay growers a fair price for their harvest, and forward contracting means farmers have money upfront and a reliable market.

“We love supporting our local growers and sharing all this beautiful produce with our clients,” said Food Resource Developer Kara Smith. “It’s a win-win!”

Volunteer: Adults ages 18+ are welcome and encouraged to volunteer during drop-in hours.

Growing and Learning at GrassRoots Garden
A popular field trip and service learning site for schools, Food for Lane County’s GrassRoots Garden is a great place for students to dig in, learn and grow. More than 2,000 youth visit each year and learn about gardening, nutrition and community-building.

Through workshops and other activities, OSU Extension Service’s Lane County Master Gardeners oversee our demonstration gardens and teach participants how to plant and grow fresh herbs, create pollinator-friendly gardens, and care for fruit orchards and compost.

Volunteer: Adults ages 18+ are welcome and encouraged to volunteer during drop-in hours.

Visit: 1465 Coburg Road, Eugene, OR 97401 (Located behind St. Thomas Episcopal Church)